FORD QUITS PERFORMANCE PACK 2 MUSTANGS AND OTHER NEWS! WEEKLY UPDATE

EV Channels Review

This weekly update covers significant changes to the Ford Mustang lineup for the 2021 model year, notably the discontinuation of the Performance Pack Level 2 (PP2) and the outgoing Bullitt. The Mach 1 is introduced with a starting price of $52,915, which is positioned as a more track-focused variant than the Bullitt, featuring a Tremec 6-speed manual, additional coolers, and standard Magneride suspension. However, the reviewer expresses disappointment that the PP2, which offered wider tires without the Mach 1's extensive luxury features and manual transmission requirement, is gone. This leaves buyers without an option for wide tires on an automatic Mustang, excluding the GT500. Standard safety tech like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking are now included across all Mustangs, which is seen as a positive for safety but likely contributes to price increases. The reviewer questions Ford's strategy of removing desirable options like the PP2 and features like glove box lighting, suggesting a move towards cost-cutting or simplifying the lineup, which may negatively impact sales. Other news includes the Acura MDX Prototype, the upcoming VW Golf R and GTI Clubsport, the new VW Taos, a refreshed Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, the updated Hyundai Santa Fe, a light refresh for the Honda Accord (losing manual transmission option), the Bentley Flying Spur V8, Audi's Q8 PHEVs (not for the US), Lucid Air base model specs, Tesla's Model S price drop, the Mercedes-Benz EQC 4x4 Squared concept, a spied Porsche 911 GT3, Honda SUV styling changes, and the rumored departure of the Toyota Land Cruiser from the US market.